Choosing the Good
Christian Ethics in a Complex World
About
"This is a book which will become recommended reading in many ethics courses and will be welcomed warmly by general readers who are looking for a reliable introduction to contemporary Christian ethics. . . . It is comprehensive, tightly written, very logical and fair, and wellillustrated."--Doug Fullerton, Colloquium
The subject of ethics has always been of fundamental importance for thoughtful Christians, but it has become even more significant in recent years with the recognition of the pluralism and post-Christian context of contemporary society. In Choosing the Good, Dennis Hollinger surveys several different approaches to ethics, considers the most critical issues facing Christians today, and suggests that any viable perspective must be rooted in a Christian worldview.
Choosing the Good begins with a survey of the ethical approaches that have been adopted by secular and Christian ethicists. Beyond the common consequentialist and principle-oriented perspectives, an alternative character/virtue approach has recently found wide acceptance, particularly in the work of Alasdair MacIntyre and Stanley Hauerwas. Hollinger provides a critical analysis of these views and suggests that they overlook a critical element, which is the basis found in a uniquely Christian worldview.
Next, Hollinger reflects on the application of Christian ethics in what he calls the "complex world" of contemporary pluralism and postmodernism. He examines the complexities of secular society and how these complexities affect Christian ethics. He then explores the factors that influence how Christians make ethical decisions, including Scripture and empirical judgment. Finally, he surveys the questions of justice, pluralism, and Christian influence in the secular world.
This volume has grown out of Hollinger's many years of experience in both academic and local church settings. His work is unique in that it surveys common approaches to ethics as well as contemporary issues of critical importance. Sure to find widespread use as a text in colleges and seminaries, it will also provide Christian lay readers with an excellent analysis of the subject.
Endorsements
"An outstanding resource-an ethics text that is deeply Christian, conceptually clear, personally engaging, and intellectually substantive! This is an exceptionally helpful book for Christians concerned about the moral life. Hollinger provides a clear map to guide readers through the rugged terrain of competing theoretical frameworks and complex practical questions."-Christine Pohl, professor emeritus of Christian ethics, Asbury Theological Seminary
"Much that is written in Christian ethics today focuses on only specific contemporary issues or is limited to a Christian perspective far removed from the world in which we live. In delightful contrast, Dennis Hollinger's work, while rich in application, is richer still in ethical theory, cultural critique, and historical, theological, and empirical analysis. These tools will equip the reader to tackle far more than the particular issues of today. Hollinger also accomplishes the difficult feat of staying closely in touch with today's pluralistic culture while remaining genuinely biblical and theological in outlook. When I read Hollinger's work, every time I finished a chapter I found myself more eager for another one. That's a good sign."-John F. Kilner, emeritus fellow, The Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity
The Author
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courtesy of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary Dennis P. Hollinger
Dennis P. Hollinger (PhD, Drew University) is president emeritus and senior distinguished professor of Christian ethics at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He has been actively speaking, teaching, and writing on topics in ethics, including bioethics and...
Continue reading about Dennis P. Hollinger
Reviews
"A fine introduction to the discipline of Christian Ethics from a solidly evangelical orientation that seeks to bring the biblical worldview to bear on the moral task of Christians in the world today. . . . I wish I had had Hollinger's book as I prepared for Ph.D. entry exams in Christian Ethics."--Christian Ethics Today
"This is a book which will become recommended reading in many ethics courses and will be welcomed warmly by general readers who are looking for a reliable introduction to contemporary Christian ethics. . . . Choosing the Good has all the marks of a good introductory textbook. It is comprehensive, tightly written, very logical and fair, and well illustrated. . . . Christians of all traditions will find much to learn from it! . . . This is a book to be warmly commended."--Doug Fullerton, Colloquium
"Several strengths are evident throughout this book, the greatest of which is both its brevity and its breadth. Despite the vast terrain covered, the material is clearly written at a level easily accessible to laypersons, while pushing on to issues that should challenge those in the pastorate and provoke thought in those within the academic study of theology and ethics. . . . This is a significant contribution for those individuals interested in holistic worldview formation and the continued development of Christian individuals competent in the task of cultural engagement. It would serve as a strong addition to the ethics courses taught in Christian colleges and universities, as well as for discipleship or adult education material within the local church."--Michael J. Sleasman, Trinity Journal
"I welcome this contribution and will assign readings from it in my ethics class. Hollinger has done his homework and cites a rather wide range of ethicists and other scholars. He opens every chapter with a helpful story or case that illustrates the issue or topic at hand. He has a gift for grasping, summarizing,and stating complex issues....A helpful constructive addition to the introduction to ethics literature." --Richard P. Olson, Review and Expositor